A year ago, it became clear BioWare was working on something, and all signs pointed to the revival of the Ultima series. This did eventually turn out to be true, and today BoiWare has announced precisely what they’re bringing. Get ready to see the future of The Old Republic, because Ultima Forever is here, and it going to be completely free.

“The first great Western RPG has been lovingly restored in Ultima Forever,” the official blurb says. “Return to the Ultima series in BioWare’s new cross-platform action RPG. Accept the challenge from Lady British and save the land of Britannia. Play as the Fighter or the Mage and travel alone or with friends, restore virtue and become the Avatar!”

The game, which will be free to play, is still in development and currently accepting registrations for the upcoming beta. In the meantime, BioWare has released some concept art to tide you over. Here’s one:

The free to play model has been the intention from the beginning, apparently, but one can’t help but think of this as a dry run for what we all know is going to happen to The Old Republic. Thoughts, Game Fronters? In the meantime, see the official site for more.